What is a digital nomad visa?
Digital nomads are individuals who are able to work remotely from anywhere in the world, often relying on technology to communicate with clients and colleagues. Many countries have recognized the growing trend of digital nomadism and have created visas or programs specifically designed for these remote workers. In this article, we will examine some of the countries that offer digital nomad visas, including the requirements and details of each program. If you are a digital nomad looking to temporarily relocate to a new country, this information may be helpful in determining where you can go and what you need to do to secure a visa.
A digital nomad visa is a program or document that allows someone to work remotely while living in a country other than their permanent residence. These visas typically have a duration of 12 months and can be extended for one or more years, depending on the issuing country. Digital nomad visas are not for everyone and some digital nomads may choose to rely on tourist visas instead. These visas have been created in response to several trends, including the decline in tourism due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the increased popularity of remote work, the rise of wealthy digital nomads and techpats, the acceptance of online schooling, and the potential for governments to benefit from the tax revenues and application fees of high-spending digital nomads. The tax situation for digital nomad visas can vary, with some countries expecting full tax payment, others offering tax deductions or special rates, and some offering zero taxes. Most countries require private health insurance and do not require social security benefits.
Which countries offer digital nomad visas?
Albania:
The Albanian government has introduced a new visa for digital nomads, called the Unique Permit. This visa allows individuals to live in Albania for up to one year, with the possibility of extension for another year, and then for an additional five years. The visa is open to foreign nationals who are employed abroad and are remote workers, self-employed individuals, researchers and students, investors or contractors, cross-border/seasonal workers, real estate owners, or retirees. Requirements for the visa are still being finalized, but it is expected that applicants will need to provide an employment or service contract, proof of income, travel and health insurance, a clear criminal record, and a bank account in Albania. The visa application process is also still being finalized. The fee for the visa has not yet been announced.
Anguilla:
The Beyond Extraordinary Anguilla program allows digital nomads to reside in the British Overseas Territory for up to 12 months. There is a $2,000 travel fee for individuals and a $3,000 fee for families of up to four people, with an additional fee of $250 for each additional family member. Applicants need to complete an application form and submit proof of employment, a birth certificate, and other documents. Approval for the remote work program takes approximately 14 days.
Antigua & Barbuda:
The Nomad Digital Residence program offers a long-stay visa for remote workers on both islands. The visa is valid for two years and costs $1,500 for individuals, $2,000 for couples, and $3,000 for families of three or more. Applicants must fill out an application and submit up to 11 documents, including proof of expected income of at least $50,000 per year. https://nomad.gov.ag/ui/ndrVisa.php
Belize:
Allows you to stay and remote work for 180 days. You must work for a firm outside of Belize and be able to work remotely. Those who own a business outside of Belize are also eligible for the visa.You will need proof of a minimum of $75,000 annual earnings ($100K for a couple/family) and health insurance coverage of $50,000. Costs: $250
Bahamas:
The Bahamas Extended Access Travel Stay allows digital nomads to work remotely for one year from any of 16 islands. The application requires a $25 fee, a valid passport data page, a medical insurance card, and proof of employment. Approved applicants must pay $1,000 (plus $500 for each dependent) to receive their Work Remotely permit. The application typically takes five days to process. https://www.bahamasbeats.com/how-it-works
Barbados:
The Barbados Welcome Stamp visa allows visitors to work remotely for up to one year. The application fee is $2,000 for individuals and $3,000 for families. Applicants must provide a passport-sized photograph, the bio data page of a passport, and proof of relationship of dependents (if applicable). Applicants must also prove that they will earn $50,000 during their 12-month stay. https://www.visitbarbados.org/barbados-welcome-stamp
Bermuda:
The Work From Bermuda Certificate permits digital nomads to work remotely for 12 months. The $263 application fee must be accompanied by health insurance and proof of employment. Applicants cannot have a criminal record and must have enough income to support themselves for the full year. Family members must also pay a fee and apply separately, but all applications must be submitted on the same day. The turnaround time is approximately five business days.
Brazil:
The digital nomad visa is a temporary visa that allows individuals to live and work in Brazil for up to one year, with the possibility of renewal for an additional year. The visa application process must be completed at a Brazilian embassy, and applicants must demonstrate a monthly income of at least $1,500. It is currently unknown how much the visa will cost.
Cabo Verde:
The Cabo Verde Remote Working Program is available to remote workers from Europe, North America, the Community of Portuguese Speaking Countries (CPLP), and the Economic Community of West African States (CEDEAO). Applicants must have a minimum bank account balance of €1,500 for individuals and €2,700 for families for at least the last six months and submit five documents with the application, including a passport and health insurance. After arriving at one of the 10 islands, applicants must provide 10 additional documents in person. Processing time can take roughly two weeks. The visa is valid for six months and can be renewed for another 12 months. https://www.remoteworkingcaboverde.com/en/form
Colombia:
The Colombian government has recently introduced a digital nomad visa for individuals who work for a company outside of Colombia and wish to live in the country for up to two years. The visa, which took effect on October 22, 2022, is known as the Visa V for visitors and is specifically designed for digital nomads. To qualify for the visa, applicants must demonstrate a minimum monthly income of at least 1,000,000 COP, which is equivalent to around $206 at the time of writing. The visa also offers a pathway to immigration and citizenship, which was previously unavailable. In order to apply for the visa, individuals must be able to provide proof that they will be working remotely or providing telecommuting services to a foreign company through digital media and the internet, either as an independent contractor or as an employee. They may also apply if they plan to start a digital content or information technology venture of interest to Colombia.
Costa Rica:
Offers a two-year temporary residency visa called Rentista for digital nomads. Requires a monthly income of $2,500 USD, fees, fingerprint records, and a copy of the applicant’s birth certificate. Can be renewed as long as requirements are met. http://www.costarica-embassy.org/index.php?q=node/147
Cayman Islands:
The Global Citizen Concierge Program targets wealthier remote workers with minimum annual salary requirements of $100,000 for singles, $150,000 for couples, and $180,000 for families. There is an annual certificate fee of $1,469 for a party of up to two people, plus an additional annual certificate fee of $500 for each dependent. There is also a credit card processing fee equal to 7% of the total application fee. The visa is valid for two years and requires a notarized bank reference, a valid passport, and proof of health insurance, among other documents. https://www.visitcaymanislands.com/en-us/global-citizen-concierge/about-the-program/program-criteria
Croatia:
Does not offer a visa but has a temporary stay program for digital nomads for up to one year. Requires proof of income of 17,822.50 kunas per month or 213,870.00 HRK for the full year, documents including Form 1a, and a fee of 350 HRK to 460 HRK. Can submit a new application for six months. https://mup.gov.hr/aliens-281621/stay-and-work/temporary-stay-of-digital-nomads/286833
Curaçao:
Offers the @HOME in Curaçao program for remote workers for six months, with the possibility of a six-month extension. Requires a $294 fee, a passport photo, proof of solvency, and proof of health insurance. Processing time is approximately two weeks. Families must apply under the main applicant and pay an additional fee. https://athomeincuracao.com/faq/
Czech Republic:
Offers a freelancer visa called Zivno that requires a variable fee, proof of a minimum income of 124,500 koruna, documents including a passport, proof of accommodation, and criminal record, and a trade license for one of the jobs on a specific list. Also requires an immigration interview and can take 90-120 days for approval. The visa lasts for one year. https://en.locusworkspace.cz/2021/02/11/digital-nomad-visa-czech/
Cyprus:
The Cyprus Digital Nomad Visa is a program that allows UK citizens and other non-EU citizens to work remotely on the island for 12 months. This visa can be extended for an additional 24 months. To apply for this program, individuals must provide a police clearance certificate from their country of residence and have private medical insurance. The cost of the program includes an issuance fee and renewal fee, as well as a €70 registration fee to the Aliens’ Registry. Applicants must also provide proof of a monthly income of €3,500 after taxes. This program was originally limited to 100 participants, but has now been increased to 500 temporary residency permits.
Dominica:
Offers an 18-month Work In Nature Extended Stay Visa for digital nomads. Requires proof of expected income of $50,000 USD, a $100 USD application fee and either a $800 USD single or $1,200 USD family visa fee, and several other documents including a passport biodata page, bank reference letter, and proof of health insurance. Approval letters are often sent within 14-28 days. https://windominica.gov.dm/details/eligibility
Dubai:
Allows remote workers and digital nomads to live and work in Dubai for up to one year. The program requires applicants to demonstrate proof of employment or company ownership, as well as a monthly income of at least €5,000 over the last three months. The visa costs $287 and can be applied for from abroad or within Dubai, although a Dubai visa may be required to enter Dubai. One of the benefits of the program is the zero income tax for individuals.
Estonia:
The Estonian Digital Nomad Visa allows remote workers to reside in Estonia for up to one year. Applicants need proof of a minimum of €3,504 in income and pay a state fee of €80 or €100 for a Type C (short stay) or Type D (long stay) visa, respectively. Additional requirements include having a valid travel document and health insurance, as well as passing a background check. Applications must be submitted in person at the nearest Estonian Embassy or Consulate, and the processing time is typically 15 to 30 days. https://e-resident.gov.ee/nomadvisa/
Georgia:
The Remotely From Georgia program enables digital nomads and their families to work within the country for one year. The program is available to travelers from up to 95 countries, including the United States and European Union (EU) member countries. Applicants only need to submit an online application form and provide financial proof, along with any other requested information. https://georgia.travel/en_US/article/remotely-from-georgia
Germany: Germany’s residence permit is granted to freelancers and other self-employed workers to reside within the country for three months, but this can be extended by up to three years. In addition to the visa application form and a €60 fee, digital nomads must submit photocopies of a passport, two biometric photographs, a cover letter, and a portfolio of previous freelance work. The application must be submitted in person to the nearest German Embassy or Consulate. Before applying for the residence permit, prospective travelers must secure a German residence and register it with the local Residence Registration Office, open a German bank account, register with the Tax Registration Office, and secure German health care. https://www.germany-visa.org/freelance-visa/
Grenada:
The digital nomad visa offered by Grenada allows individuals to live and work remotely in the Caribbean island for up to one year, with the option to extend for another year. It is open to all nationalities and does not have many eligibility requirements. However, applicants must hold a valid passport, be fully vaccinated against Covid-19 and have health insurance. They must also earn at least $37,000 per year and provide proof of income. To apply for the Grenada digital nomad visa, applicants must submit a valid passport, passport-sized photos, an application form, proof of remote work, proof of income, health insurance, and a Covid-19 vaccination certificate. Additional documents may be required for applicants with dependents, including a marriage certificate and birth certificates for children.
Greece:
The Greek Digital Nomad Visa allows remote workers and online entrepreneurs to live and work in Greece for up to two years. To qualify for this visa, individuals must have an income of at least €3,500 per month and provide proof of remote work. Those bringing a spouse and/or one dependent must have a higher monthly income of at least €4,200. In addition to these financial requirements, applicants must have a valid passport, a clean criminal record, proof of health insurance, and an address for accommodation. The application process must be completed in person at a Greek consulate or embassy and requires an appointment and the submission of all necessary documents. Upon arrival in Greece, successful applicants must register for a residency permit at the nearest Aliens and Immigration Department of the Decentralized Administration office.
Hungary:
The Hungarian Digital Nomad Visa is called the White Card and allows non-EU citizens to work remotely in Hungary for up to 12 months. To qualify for the visa, individuals must have a verified employment relationship or own a share in a company with verified profit in a country other than Hungary and perform their work or manage their company from Hungary using advanced digital technology. Applicants must also meet the general conditions for staying in Hungary for more than 90 days within any 180 day period, not be subject to any disqualifications, and not pursue any gainful activity in Hungary or hold a share in a Hungarian company. The minimum income requirement for the White Card is €2,000 per month. The visa cannot be granted to those who are pursuing a gainful activity, are the executive officer of a for-profit business association, are participating in a short-term supervised traineeship, have applied for refugee status or any subsidiary form of protection, have been granted refugee status or any subsidiary form of protection in Hungary, are exiles, have had their expulsion suspended, hold an EC residence permit, or are admitted to the Union for the purpose of employment as highly qualified workers. http://www.bmbah.hu/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&layout=item&id=1714&Itemid=2100&lang=en
Iceland:
The long-term visa for remote workers program is available to digital nomads from any country that doesn’t require a visa to travel to Iceland and is not available to any that are part of the EU, the European Economic Area, and/or the European Free Trade Association. The visa can be issued for up to 180 days, as long as applicants can prove a monthly income equivalent to one million króna (ISK) or about $7,261.11 USD for singles or 1.3 million ISK (about $9,439.44 USD) for couples. Each applicant must submit a separate application and pay a 12,200 ISK ($88.59 USD) processing fee separately. Applications will also require a passport photo, copies of a passport, proof of health insurance, proof of purpose of stay in Iceland, and potentially a criminal record check. All applications must be submitted in person or via mail to the Directorate of Immigration at Dalvegur 18, 201 Kópavogur. https://utl.is/en/long-term-visa-for-remote-workers-and-their-family-members
Indonesia:
The Indonesian Second-Home Visa is a long-term visa that allows foreign nationals to live in Indonesia for up to 10 years. It is targeted at investors, travelers, and elderly or retirement tourists who have a minimum of $130,000 in their bank accounts and wish to establish Indonesia as their second home. The visa can be applied for online through the Online Visa Approval application on the official website of the Directorate General of Immigration, and the processing time is typically four working days after the applicant completes the immigration fee payment. The Second-Home Visa costs Rp3,000,000 (around $210) per person, and holders can also apply for the same visa for their children, spouse, or parents as followers, provided they can demonstrate a valid family relationship and meet the necessary requirements. These requirements include a valid Second-Home Visa or Second-Home Temporary Stay Permit for the primary applicant, as well as a copy of the follower’s passport and a recent color photograph with a white background. A sworn translation of any non-English documents, such as a marriage or birth certificate, may also be required. https://www.imigrasi.go.id/en/visa-rumah-kedua/
Latvia:
Offers a digital nomad visa that is valid for one year and can be renewed for another year. This visa is only available to foreign nationals who are working for an employer or business registered in an OECD country. The cost of the visa is €60 or €120 for expedited processing. Applicants must prove an income of 2.5 times the average Latvia annual wage.
Malta:
The Nomad Residence Permit allows digital nomads to work remotely within the archipelago for one year. It can be renewed but is available only to residents of countries outside of the EU. Family members of remote workers must apply via a separate application. Applicants must meet a gross monthly income threshold of €2,700, hold a valid travel document, have health insurance, acquire a valid property rental or purchase agreement, and pass a background check. Once the application and all required documents have been submitted via email, instructions will be sent to pay a €300 administrative fee for each applicant. https://residencymalta.gov.mt/overview/
Click to access Application-Process-Nomad-Residence-Permit.pdf
Malaysia:
The Malaysian De Rantau Nomad Pass is a one-year visa that allows holders to live and work in Malaysia. The main pass holder is also allowed to bring in his/her spouse and child/children. The pass can be renewed for another year. Eligibility requirements for the De Rantau Nomad Pass include a minimum monthly income of $2,000, a background in IT, digital marketing, or content creation, and an active freelance or independent contractor contract that is at least three months in duration with a foreign or Malaysian company. The De Rantau Nomad Pass costs RM1000 (around $211) per year. https://mdec.my/derantau
Mauritius:
The Premium Travel Visa offers one year of remote working abroad with the potential for renewal. The visa is 100% free, but applicants still need to prove a minimum monthly income of $1,500 USD for each applicant as well as $500 USD per month for each dependent under the age of 24. Prospective travelers must submit multiple documents with their online application, including a valid passport, proof of travel and health insurance, and a copy of their marriage certificate if applicable. The application must also be accompanied by a non-refundable deposit of $5,000 USD per applicant, which will be returned upon successful completion of the program. https://www.edbmauritius.org/premium-visa
Mexico:
The Mexican Digital Nomad Visa allows remote workers to reside in Mexico for up to one year. The visa costs $1,620 MXN ($78.68 USD) for individuals and $3,240 MXN ($157.36 USD) for families. In addition to the application form, applicants must provide a valid passport, two recent passport-sized photographs, and proof of employment or income. The application must be submitted in person at the nearest Mexican Embassy or Consulate. The processing time is typically 10 to 15 business days. https://consulmex.sre.gob.mx/leamington/index.php/non-mexicans/visas/115-temporary-resident-visa
Montserrat:
The Montserrat Remote Work Stamp is valid for one year and requires proof of an annual income of $70,000 USD, along with a fee of $500 USD for single travelers or $750 USD for families of up to three dependents (plus a $250 USD fee for any additional dependents). Other requirements include valid health insurance, a copy of passport biographical data, a passport-size photo, a police record, and proof of employment or a business incorporation certificate. Processing takes seven working days after the application is submitted. https://montserratremoteworker.com/the-stamp/
Namibia:
The first African country to launch a digital nomad visa specifically for remote workers and digital nomads. The visa allows holders to live and work in Namibia for up to six months and requires applicants to demonstrate a monthly income of at least $2,000. Accompanying spouses must demonstrate a monthly income of $1,000, while accompanying children must demonstrate a monthly income of $500. The visa costs $62 per person. Namibia is known for its stunning national parks and diverse landscapes, making it an interesting destination for digital nomads.
Norway:
The Independent Contractor Visa allows for two years of residency in Norway for remote workers, with a cost of €600 and a requirement for proof of an annual income of at least €35,719. Applicants must provide a passport, two passport-size photos, and proof of a Norway residence, as well as complete an online checklist of required documentation. All documents must be submitted to the nearest Norwegian Embassy or Consulate. https://www.udi.no/en/checklists-container/work/checklist–for-self-employed-persons-with-a-company-abroad-/
Panama:
Offers a short-term visa for remote work that allows a minimum stay of 9 months, with the option to extend for an additional 9 months. Applicants must have a valid working contract with a foreign company or be an independent freelancer doing remote work, have the teleworking provided be for business outside of Panama, and have a minimum annual income of $36,000 USD. The visa costs 300 balboas ($300 USD) and the application process can be completed online in under 30 days. Panama has territorial taxation, meaning that remote workers are not taxed on income from outside of the country. Tax residency can be applied for after a stay of more than 6 months in Panama.
Portugal:
The D7 passive income visa allows for independent workers to reside in Portugal for one year, with the option to renew for two additional years. The visa costs €83, with an additional resident permit fee of €72. Requirements include a valid passport, two passport-size photos, valid travel insurance, proof of residence (if applicable), proof of sufficient income or a term of responsibility signed by a Portuguese citizen or resident, proof of owning a business entity (or a contract for providing services), and declaration by an authority that the applicant is qualified to be employed in their sector (if applicable). There is also a separate residence permit for family reunification purposes. https://www.internations.org/go/moving-to-portugal/visas-work-permits
Romania:
The Romania Digital Nomad Visa is available to non-EU citizens and allows individuals to do remote work in Romania for up to 12 months, with the possibility of renewal for an additional 12 months. To qualify, individuals must show proof of remote work, proof of health insurance, a clean criminal record, and a place to stay in Romania. The minimum income requirement is €3,300 per month. There are no Romanian taxes for digital nomads, as Romania assumes that individuals will have a tax residence elsewhere.
Saint Lucia:
Offering a digital nomad visa called the Saint Lucia Live It visa, which allows visitors to stay in the country for 12 months on a multiple entry visa and work remotely. This visa has no minimum income requirements and costs EC$190 (USD75) per person. This program is designed to attract long-staying digital nomads and boost the island’s economy. https://www.govt.lc/services/apply-for-saint-lucia-non-immigrant-visa
Seychelles:
The Seychelles Workcation program allows digital nomads to work remotely from any of the 115 islands in the archipelago for a period of one month to one year, with a fee of €45. Applicants must provide a valid passport, proof of being an employee/business owner, proof of income (exact amount unspecified), and a valid medical and travel insurance policy. Family members can join as ordinary visitors with the submission of birth and/or marriage certificates. https://workcation.seychelles.travel/
Spain:
The Spanish digital nomad visa program will come into effect in January 2023. It allows foreign employees from Non-European Economic Area (EEA) countries to live and work in Spain for one year, with the possibility of renewal for two additional years. To qualify for this visa, individuals must be able to prove that they work for one or more companies outside of Spain, be qualified professionals with a degree or postgraduate degree, have at least three years of related professional work experience, and be able to guarantee that their work will continue for at least one year. In addition, applicants must have a clean criminal record, valid private health insurance coverage, and proof of accommodation during their stay in Spain. Self-employed individuals will be allowed to dedicate up to 20% of their professional business activities to a company registered in Spain. The government’s minimum income requirement for the Nomad Visa is expected to be twice the national minimum wage in Spain, currently €1,050 per month.
Sri Lanka:
Has not formally announced a digital nomad visa, but it has made it easier to obtain extensions to visas for those who wish to stay in the country for longer periods of time. Extensions of 30 to 90 days can be obtained online for citizens of certain countries, including Austria, Belgium, Denmark, the Netherlands, Poland, Italy, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Spain, Greece, Sweden, Hungary, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, the United States, Canada, Japan, Switzerland, Norway, Portugal, Slovenia, Estonia, Mauritius, Iceland, and Cuba. Extensions of 90 to 180 days cost $150, while extensions of 180 to 270 days cost $200. Overstayers are subject to a fine of $500. Sri Lanka is a popular destination for digital nomads due to its mix of beaches, national parks, cultural sites, and good food. https://www.immigration.gov.lk/web/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=159&Itemid=203&lang=en
https://eservices.immigration.gov.lk/vs/home.php
Taiwan:
The Taiwan Employment Gold Card is a four-in-one card combining an open-ended work permit, resident visa, alien resident certificate, and re-entry permit. It allows workers to reside in Taiwan for one to three years, at a cost of $100 USD to $310 USD depending on nationality and duration of stay. Applications typically take 30 days to receive approval, but may take 50 to 60 days if additional documents are requested. Qualification is based on an assessment of professional skills, with no requirement to already have a job in Taiwan when applying. Digital nomads will also need to provide additional documents based on the skill applied under. https://goldcard.nat.gov.tw/en/application/
